File Photo: Al-Ahly s midfield Emam Ashour in shoots the ball during the match with Modern Future on 28 December, 2023. Photo courtesy of Al-Ahly.
As defending champions, Ahly currently sit in 10th place in the league table with 14 points, but they have eight games in hand and are determined to climb up the standings as they aim to retain their title.
Enppi currently leads the table with 26 points, but they have played eight more matches than Ahly.
Ahly's last appearance in the domestic league was on 28 November 2023, when they played out a goalless draw against Smouha.
This draw followed another 1-1 against Gouna.
Inspired by their recent African victories, Ahly will be eager to return to winning ways in the Egyptian league.
Unfortunately, Ahly will be missing the services of their dependable defender Yasser Ibrahim, who sustained an injury during the team's 1-0 win over Medeama in the CAF Champions League.
However, all other players, including winter signing Wessam Abou Ali, are available for the game.
On the other hand, Baladeyet El-Mahalla is expected to present a tough challenge for the defending champions.
The newcomers have shown promising performances in their previous 13 games, securing victories against Modern Future, Arab Contractors, and Pharco.
They also managed a 2-2 draw against Pyramids FC, placing them 13th in the league table.
Under the guidance of coach Ahmed Abdel-Raouf, Baladeyet El-Mahalla has adopted an offensive strategy, scoring 16 goals, making them the third-best attacking team in the league.
However, their defense has proven to be vulnerable, conceding 26 goals, the highest in the league.
Abdel-Raouf will need to adjust his tactics against the defending champions, as Ahly possesses the ability to exploit any audacious approach.
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